Colombia's Aero Republica is rebranding to Copa Airlines Colombia in a move to strengthen Copa's critical mass and brand recognition as consolidation intensifies in Latin America.

According to an Aero Republica source, the fleet livery will be changed on the carrier's aircraft by May 2011, representing an investment of around US$2 million.

He says that Aero Republica is operating with the "same high standards of Copa", allowing a seemless travel experience throughout the network of both carriers. Copa acquired Aero Republica in March 2005.

The merger of Colombia's Avianca with the Central American Taca Group, and plans by LAN and TAM to merge, has put increased pressure on the Panama-based Copa Holdings to strengthen its own visibility in this increasingly competitive region.

Copa and Copa Colombia have a combined fleet of 60 aircraft, flying to more than 50 destinations in the Americas, including 12 in Colombia.

Source: Air Transport Intelligence news